The St Vincent de Paul Society will join Australians in the National Day of Mourning today to honour the Bondi attack victims, standing in solidarity with the Jewish community, writes the society’s national president, Mark Gaetani.
The society stands in sorrow and solidarity with the families and loved ones of those who were killed, all who were injured or traumatised, our Jewish sisters and brothers, and everyone affected by the terror that unfolded at Bondi on 14 December 2025.
We embrace the theme chosen by the Bondi Chabad community, “Light will win, a gathering of unity and remembrance’, as a powerful expression of hope in the face of darkness”.
Lighting candles, the “15 Pillars of Light” installations across the country, and the minute’s silence at 7.01pm (AEDT) are significant ways for our nation to show respect, pray, and remember the 15 lives so cruelly taken at Bondi.
The society reaffirms that every Jewish person is a valued and welcome member of the Australian community and rejects the hatred and division that motivated this violent act.
Aligned with the society’s mission, we encourage all Australians to respond through concrete acts of love and service – in the Jewish tradition, mitzvahs – such as checking on neighbours, supporting local businesses, volunteering time, or donating to assist those in need.
In this time of deep grief, the Society invites people of every faith and background to come together in prayer, reflection and everyday kindness, so that compassion, justice and peace might overcome fear and division in our communities.
Light will always win.
FULL STORY
National Day of Mourning to honour Bondi victims (By Mark Gaetani, St Vincent de Paul Society Australia)
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